HIALEAH, FLA. (WSVN) - Students across Miami-Dade County filled classrooms Thursday morning as the new school year kicked off—and for one school, the excitement was doubled with its first ‘A’ rating in 14 years.
The welcoming committee at Westland Hialeah Senior High School kicked things off in high-gear as the band stood near the entrance of the building, anticipating students’ arrival and playing tunes that filled them with enthusiasm for the 2025-2026 academic school year.
Though this was no ordinary back-to-school welcome, as the school had more than one reason to celebrate after receiving its first ‘A” rating since 2012.
Superintendent Dr. Jose L. Dotres spent the morning visiting schools across the district—beginning with Westland high— where he met with staff and students.
The superintendent accompanied students on the bus ride to campus, greeting each student with a warm smile and a handshake during drop-off.
Students across the district can expect a few changes this academic year, including the prohibition of cellphone usage in elementary and middle schools.
“New this year, based on the law, is there will be no usage of cellphones in the elementary schools and in the middle schools. In the high schools, there is flexibility,” said Dr. Jose L. Dotres.
Dr. Dotres boasted about the success of Miami-Dade schools while also speaking on some of the new programs that will be created.
“Because of all the accomplishments of our school district, rate ‘A’ for six consecutive years, we’ve opened up a lot of new programs that we are very proud of,” he said.
Artificial intelligence will also be making its school debut this year, creating technological advancement in the classroom.
“We have like five new innovative academic programs; one is a space hub, the next one is a school that will be focused on journalism, digital reporting and everything that has to do with communication. We also have an academy called[inaudible]which has everything to do with music and infusion and then finally we have three high schools that are opening up artificial intelligence academies,” said Dotres.
Dr. Dotres made his rounds at Mater Lakes Academy, Barbara Goleman Senior High School and Dr. Ronaldo Espinosa K-8 center.
Principal of Dr. Ronaldo Espinosa, Phil Alexander Mato, shared his excitement about the school year.
“The staff is excited. It’s like a fresh start on multiple levels; it’s a fresh start because it’s a fresh start to the school year. We are a designated A school in the state of Florida and as well as we are starting our magnet program in the fall,” said Mato.
Right outside the school, the City of Doral is proud to announce the launch of a new photo-enforced speed detection system in designated school zones throughout the city. Its a trial period for 30 days.
When a car is traveling more than 11 miles over the posted limit during school hours, the system captures evidence of the violation and issues a $100 fine to the registered owner of the car.
Over at Arcola Lakes Elementary school in Little River, the vibes were high as the school brought out characters like Stitch, Bluey, Hello Kitty and Woody to line the hallways and take photos with kids.
“It makes it so exciting. It makes our first day even more exciting for them,” said Principal Yolanda Ellis.
Miami-Dade County Public Schools launched a hotline to help with any questions or concerns parents may have.
Click here to access the Live Chat at M-DCPS Customer Service Center or call 305-995-HELP (4357) for assistance in English, Spanish, and Haitian-Creole.
Drivers are advised to adhere to the speeding regulations in school zones and be mindful of students crossing the street.
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